By Tirzah Rezende

On Thursday, March 28, Valentina Suarez, director of Universo MOLA, granted an interview to Cata Droguett, journalist and UM ambassador in Chile, for the program Chile Sustentable. In this conversation, with the participation of Cris Miranda, fashion designer, the relationship between fashion and sustainability was explored. During the dialogue, the importance of the textile industry in this context was highlighted and how it can serve as a vehicle to promote sustainability and generate a positive impact on society.

Valen emphasized that fashion is an essential part of everyday life, as we all dress on a daily basis. He also highlighted the diversity of people involved in the textile industry in all its stages, from manufacturing to sales, evidencing its broad impact on society. "This impact should not be underestimated, fashion can be a starting point to address other important issues, such as regeneration, human and environmental rights," he said.

Meanwhile, Cata Droguett emphasized the challenges facing the textile industry, such as pollution and precarious working conditions. However, she also highlighted the need to promote a local and sustainable industry in Latin America.

The interview also addressed the crucial role of events such as Universo MOLA Fashion Week in promoting sustainable Latin American fashion and in the connection between designers, craftsperson, and actors from this sector in the region. Valen explained that her organization aims to promote sustainability throughout the textile production chain, not only among designers, but also among everyone involved in the industry, including activists, brands, and stores. In addition, she highlighted the importance of giving visibility to all those who work toward sustainability.

Finally, Valen mentioned the term "anti-Fashion Week" and according to her, it may be a good description of the event. She added that this meeting is an opportunity for all Latin America to come together to understand what sustainability is from different perspectives. She highlighted the importance of connecting the region's designers and craftspeople, generating a regional economy, and promoting the growth of regenerative fashion. Lastly, she mentioned the success of the event in its three previous editions, highlighting the growth and connection between Latin American designers because of this initiative.